This is still a debated topic, whether red meat is actually beneficial to your health or not. Many people are scared to have red meat, because of its negative effects. However, there are some drawbacks of eating red meat, but the question is whether the health benefits of red meat outweigh the negative effects of it?

Red meat basically is meats from mammals like cows and sheep, and the red colour of it comes from myoglobin. It is a great source of Protein, Iron, Zinc, Phosphorus, Magnesium and B vitamins, why do we still follow the moral nutritional guidelines and avoid these nutrients. Lets have a look at the nutritional value of red meat.

In
Focus

It is a rich source of Vitamin B12, which is needed for the red blood cell formation. It helps in building DNA and make sure that cells work properly. It is vital for the nervous and circulatory system. Long-term deficiency of Vitamin B12, can lead to brain and central nervous system damage.

Zinc in the body contributes to the development of bone tissue, stimulates the growth and division of cells, tissue regeneration, re-productive function and brain-development. It is also an active agent, responsible for triggering, the enzymes required to metabolize food and nutrients.

Magnesium – every organ in our body needs magnesium, and unlike trace materials, magnesium is needed by the body in large amounts. It is necessary for the proper functioning of the brain, nervous system, cardiovascular system, bone strength, muscles, kidney and the liver.

Vitamin D is crucial for the body to absorb calcium from the foods. It is also important for the growth and maintenance of bones and teeth. Thus, it does not matter how much calcium we take, it is without Vitamin D, calcium is expelled in our urine.

Iron is a vital mineral, because it is involved in the transportation of oxygen to yourself. It is essential for hemoglobin formation and muscle functioning. In addition Iron is present in the anti-oxidase enzyme which protects the cell from the ravages of oxidation. Thyroid gland and central nervous system cannot work without Iron.

Their are so many advantages of red meat, but unfortunately red meat comes with a few health risks also, like increasing the risk of bowel cancer, raising cholesterol level, gaining weight, increases the risk of osteoporosis, breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease and also causes food poisoning.

But because of this you don't need to compromise with the intake of red meat, just be more conscious about which cuts of meat you consume and the way its been cooked.